Queensland Shooting at Boxing Night Leaves Teen Woman in Critical State
Brisbane, October 25
A gunfire incident outside a boxing venue on the outskirts of Brisbane has injured four people, one of them a 19-year-old woman who is in critical condition. The shooting, in the Australian state of Queensland, has prompted a major police investigation.
The attack occurred at about 8.15 pm on Saturday outside the Fitzy's complex in Loganholme, which was hosting the Logan City Titles Fight Night.
Police told reporters that a car pulled up outside the complex and that people inside fired shots at those nearby. The vehicle then left the area. Four people were wounded and transported to hospital.
The woman, who lives in Jimboomba, was shot in the head and neck and underwent surgery. Her condition is serious. Three men aged 27, 37 and 38 also suffered gunshot wounds and remain under medical care.
Detective Inspector Ian Galpin of the Logan Criminal Investigation Branch described the attack as dreadful. He said, "The young woman was not the target of the attackers. It appears she was an innocent person who was caught in the gunfire."
The event drew a large crowd, and the shooting caused panic. Some attendees hid under the ring and in nearby rooms to escape the gunfire.
Investigators say footage from CCTV cameras and accounts from eyewitnesses indicate that two people were in the car. Both allegedly had their faces covered and wore gloves. Police have deployed specialist officers and a team experienced in homicide investigations.
A Mitsubishi vehicle was later found burnt in Waterford West. Police are looking into whether it has any connection to the shooting. Another car fire in the Tamborine area is also being examined.
Police have said there is no immediate threat of further attacks against the public. Officers are still working to identify the attackers and establish why the shooting happened. Investigators are examining the possibility of links to organised crime or motorcycle gangs, but no final finding has been made.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli condemned the attack as dreadful. He said such violence is unacceptable and that those responsible must be found.
The local community is worried, particularly because families and children attended the boxing event. Organiser Shadow Boxing expressed sorrow over the shooting and said its thoughts were with the injured and affected families. It has also announced that its gym will stay closed until further notice.
People with any information or footage about the shooting or suspicious vehicles are asked to contact investigators.